East Pier Hotel, situated on the waterfront in Napier’s historic port area of Ahuriri, was a most relaxing and tranquil venue for our New Year Luncheon.   The centre of each table was decorated with a generic model of a barque, in recognition of the ships our ancestors would have sailed to New Zealand on.

Branch President Paddy Bayley welcomed 71 attendees, which included National Secretary Carolyn Adams, from Hamilton and National Treasurer Kathy Dent from Wellington.  We were indebted to Kathy, for her “flying visit” to our branch.  She had flown in that morning, especially to be our guest speaker, then departed on a flight later in the afternoon.

Kathy presented four new members with their membership certificates.  Two new “Friends of Hawke’s Bay Branch”, and two new Members of NZ Founders Society were warmly welcomed by everyone present.

Our special Founders Grace was read by Carolyn Adams, prior to the meal.

Branch members had previously been informed that Societies registered under the 1908 Act need to re register under the 2022 Act between 5 October 2023 and 5 April 2026.  Any society that does not re register by 5 April 2026 will no longer exist as an incorporated society.

Following lunch, Kathy Dent gave a very detailed and informative presentation.  Assisted by Carolyn Adams, Kathy included a brief power point presentation. Members who attended, are now hopefully aware of why these proposed changes are necessary.  It was very pleasing to have active participation from many of our members with numerous questions.  Further discussion will take place at our Branch AGM in March.

At the conclusion of the afternoon, members participated in the reading of our New Zealand Founders Pledge.

Photos:

1          Presentation of “Friends of HB Branch” certificates:

            L to R:  Kathy Dent, Angela MacFarlane, Carol Pipe

2          Presentation of NZ Founders membership certificates:

            L to R:  Kathy Dent, Nancye Bailey, Kathy Brenstrum

3          Centre table decoration.